France defender Jules Kounde was seen wearing a gold necklace during his team's match against Poland in the round of 16. Fans are asking the same thing: is that allowed?
The 24-year-old center-back, who has played in three games at this winter's World Cup, was seen wearing the chain during the first half of Sunday's match at the Al Thumama Stadium.
In the 41st minute, referee Jesus Valenzuela finally told Kounde to take off the necklace, and soon after, a member of France's backroom staff called the Barcelona man over to take it off.
So, is that okay? The IFAB Laws of the Game handbook makes it clear that players can't use or wear anything that could hurt them.
Under "Safety," it says, "All jewelry (necklaces, rings, bracelets, earrings, leather bands, rubber bands, etc.) is not allowed and must be taken off." You can't cover your jewelry with tape.
"The players must be checked before the game starts, and substitutes must be checked before they step onto the field."
"If a player is wearing or using jewelry or equipment that is not allowed or is dangerous, the referee must tell the player to:
• Leave the field of play at the next stoppage if the player can't or won't do what is asked.
"The player must be warned if he or she doesn't listen or wears the item again."